A/N: This is a short one, but I like it. :)
Neal Caffrey looked out the window of the café he'd ducked into and quickly jerked his head back. Federal Agent Peter Burke was right outside, running a hand through his hair in frustration. Neal leaned back enough that he wouldn't be seen and silently observed Peter. Peter pulled out his cell phone and dialed. He turned away from Neal, who then could not read his lips. As Burke continued to look around, Neal saw the word "sir" several times, so he guessed the agent was talking to a superior.
Peter turned his head slightly and Neal saw, "I lost him. For now. But I'll keep looking." Neal let out a breath. Peter was very honest, that was certain. Neal would never admit to a superior that he was- at least temporarily- failing at a task he'd been given.
But that was Peter Burke for you.
Everything about the agent was real. His love for his wife, his dedication to his career, even the frustration Neal now saw in his face. Nothing was faked or covered or modified.
"Yes, sir, I'll keep you apprised," Burke said, then hung up the phone. Neal saw him heave a sigh and then Peter's head snapped suddenly around to the window. Brown eyes met blue ones and Peter looked surprised then determined. He darted into the café, but Neal was already half way out of the back exit. Not to be deterred so easily, Peter continued to race after him.
"Caffrey! Stop!" Burke yelled to him. He sounded tired and frustrated and a little disappointed. Again Neal noted that nothing was moderated. It was part of what made Peter who he was, Neal supposed. A word popped into his mind that described the agent almost perfectly.
"Sorry, Peter," Neal said, flashing an apologetic grin. "No can do." And he disappeared into a crowd. From where he stood hidden in a shop behind merchandise, he heard Peter swear angrily.
Eventually the agent moved on, but Neal was still thinking about him.
Sometimes, he almost wished he could be that genuine.
Almost.